Related Articles

"We are absolutely devastated. We've been doing this for 20 years, and to think something like this has happened... We are upset mainly for the family and for all the riders involved in the event," Mr Blair said.

He said that police had shut the road and not informed the organisers of the identity of the man who died. It was too early to speculate about changes to future events or safety concerns he said.

"I can't answer the question about what will happen in the future. I am more concerned about the welfare of the family."

Mr Blair said there was no question of cancelling the event, since most of the riders were already on the road when the man was killed.

"This event is conducted over four routes, and most of the entries were for the long distance, and most riders were past the place of the incident."

Investigations into the crash continue, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.